Dial M for Macronutrients

Do you know what macronutrients are? The term “macronutrients” (or macros, as some call them) and macronutrient profiling (the customization of ratios to fit an individual’s health or fitness goals or needs) are hot topics in the health and fitness industry these days. But what exactly do these terms mean for you? As it turns out, one’s choice of macronutrients can have a significant effect of the achievement of specific goals (endurance, strength, fat loss, weight gain, etc.).

“Macro” is a Greek word that means “large,” which, in the context of nutrition, relates to the size of the nutrient and its importance in energy balance. In basic terms, this balance can be defined as “energy in” (calories taken into the body through food and drink) versus “energy out” (calories being used in the body for daily energy requirements). Energy (or calories) is the core of nutrition and health, and the foundation for this energy comes from the three macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

A macro-based diet looks at the percentage combination or ratios of carbs, proteins and fats in a person’s diet rather than total calorie counts alone. These traditionally have been set as percentages for total calories, falling somewhere within the following USDA guidelines:

These guidelines provide a very broad range for each of the macros. So how do you determine which ratio or range is right for your particular needs and goals? Recent research and position stands have helped narrow these ranges quite a bit. Below is a review of some basic recommendations for macros, along with some strategies to help educate you on your individual nutritional needs from St. Louis, Brentwood, and Clayton, MO personal trainers.

Carbohydrate
• Provides fuel during high-intensity exercise and for the brain

Medium to High-intensity Training (1 to 2 hours per day, 4 to 6 days/week)
• 20 to 30 percent total protein (1.5 to 2 g/kg per day); this is equivalent to 5 to 10 servings of quality protein sources per day
• 2 to 0.3 g/kg post-workout (3:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein) (Kreider et al., 2010)

Weight Loss or Decrease Body fat
• 25 to 30 percent total protein (1.5 to 2 g/kg per day); a protein intake of approximately 25 to 30 percent of calories has been shown to boost metabolism by up to 80 to 100 calories per day, compared to lower-protein diets (Westerterp-Plantenga, 2008)